How to Install Wall Sconces: Adding Style and Light

Our 80-year-old home is full of charm, but like many older houses, it has its quirks—one of the most noticeable being the lack of overhead lighting in the living room. To combat this, we’ve relied on a mix of floor lamps and table lamps to illuminate the space. While they mostly do the job, we wanted to add a touch of elegance and functionality around our fireplace mantel to better highlight the artwork and decor we love. That’s where our new wall sconces come in.

In this post, I’ll share the process of selecting, installing, and enjoying our wall sconces above the mantel. I’ll also touch on some common questions about wall sconces, the types available, and tips for proper placement. And if you’re curious about the abstract artwork featured above our mantel, I painted it myself and wrote an article about the process—be sure to check it out here.

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Why We Chose Wall Sconces for the Mantel

The fireplace is a natural focal point in any living room, and ours is no exception. However, we felt it needed better lighting to truly showcase the art and decor, especially in the evenings. Adding wall sconces above the mantel not only brought in more light but also added a decorative element that feels intentional and cohesive with the room’s design (and future design plans).

What made our choice even better is that these wall sconces are versatile—they can be either wired into the wall or used wirelessly with rechargeable LED bulbs. We opted for the wireless setup for ease of installation. However, I’ll admit that the battery life of the LED bulbs we’re currently using isn’t great. We typically turn the wall sconces on for a few hours in the evening, and I find myself recharging the bulbs every few days. I’m considering ordering higher-rated rechargeable bulbs to see if they last longer.

Types of Wall Sconces

When choosing wall sconces, it helps to understand the different types available so you can pick the best option for your space. Here are some of the most common styles:

1. Hardwired Sconces
   These are connected directly to your home’s electrical system. They offer a clean, seamless look but require professional installation unless you’re comfortable with wiring.
2. Plug-In Sconces
   These sconces are plugged into an outlet, making them easy to install and relocate. They’re a great option if you’re renting or want flexibility.
3. Battery-Powered Sconces
   These wireless sconces run on batteries and are incredibly convenient, especially for spaces without existing wiring. The downside is frequent battery changes or recharges, depending on the bulbs.
4. Swing-Arm Sconces
   These sconces feature adjustable arms, making them perfect for task lighting, such as next to a bed or reading nook.
5. Decorative Sconces
   These prioritize style over functionality and often include unique designs or materials to act as statement pieces. Candle sconces are an example of a pretty, but not super functional lighting solution. Faux stick candles might be practical and decorative option if that is the look you want.

Installing Our Wall Sconces

Installing the wall sconces was straightforward. Here’s a brief overview of the process:

Materials Needed:

• Wall sconces (with included hardware)
• Drill or screwdriver
• Pencil
• Measuring tape
• Laser level (optional but very helpful!)

Instructions:

If you’re placing them around an artwork or mirror:

1. Roughly Mark the Placement: Hold the sconce up to the wall to determine the best placement. You might need a second set of eyes for this part. When you find your ideal placement, use a pencil and make a small mark approximating the spot on one side of the art or mirror. I marked the top of the circular lamp base (the part that will be mounted to the wall).
2. Measure and Mark the Other Side: Measure from the center of your artwork or mirror to the mark you just made above. Now mark the same distance on the other side. These marks will be used to space them evenly on the width of the wall.
3. Level Them: Measure the distance from the floor or ceiling (or your mantel), to each mark to confirm they’re at the same height. Make any adjustments to ensure they will be level. Using a laser level can make this step easier and ensure your sconces are level.
4. Install the Hardware: Follow the instructions provided with your sconces to install the mounting hardware. Usually, this involves drilling pilot holes and securing the backing plate to the wall.
5. Mount the Sconce: Attach the sconce faceplate to the installed hardware, ensuring it’s secure.

I can’t be any more specific than that because installation will depend on which sconces you purchase and there are a lot of options. But I will say, that I was able to assemble the lamps in a few minutes, and my husband and I were able to install them in about 20 minutes. And most of that time was me trying to decide the spacing!

Tips for Spacing Wall Sconces

The spacing of your wall sconces depends on what you’re framing and the room’s overall layout. Here are some general guidelines:

• Around Artwork or Mirrors: Hold the sconces up to visually approximate the right position. They should generally be centered vertically with the art and spaced evenly on both sides. For most pieces, spacing the sconces 6-12 inches from the edges of the art or mirror works well.
• For General Lighting: If the sconces aren’t framing anything specific, aim to install them about 60-72 inches from the floor and at least 6 feet apart for balanced light distribution.

Common Questions About Lamp Sconces

1. Can wall sconces be installed without wiring?
   Yes! Many wall sconces offer wireless options using battery-powered LED bulbs, like the ones we installed. This is perfect for renters or spaces without existing wiring.
2. How do I choose the right sconce style for my space?
   Consider the room’s overall design. Modern spaces might benefit from sleek, minimalist sconces, while more traditional rooms could use ornate or classic designs. Choose a metallic finish that compliments your space.
3. Are LED bulbs worth it for wireless sconces?
   LED bulbs are energy-efficient and long-lasting, but not all rechargeable options have the same battery life. Look for highly-rated bulbs with longer runtimes. The bulbs that came with our lamp sconces aren’t terrible, but they’re not amazing. I am considering trying these, highly rated, rechargeable LED light bulbs to see if they last longer.
4. How high should sconces be mounted?
   It depends on their purpose. For general lighting, 60-72 inches from the floor is standard. Around artwork or mirrors, the placement should align with the piece you’re framing.

Reflecting on the Transformation

Adding wall sconces above our fireplace mantel has completely transformed the look and feel of the living room. The extra light draws attention to the artwork and creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere in the evenings. If you’re considering sconces for your home, I hope this post has answered your questions and inspired you to give them a try. Whether you’re installing wall sconces for function or style, they’re a timeless addition to any space.

If you’re curious about the abstract artwork featured in the photos, I painted it myself and shared the entire process in a separate blog post. Be sure to check it out for inspiration!